TALLAHASSEE — Florida State University’s International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) team is using synthetic biology to ignite curiosity in STEM fields, drawing international attention at a major biotech event this summer.
The team, comprised of 10 undergraduate students and a group of faculty mentors, recently attended the 2025 iGEM North America Expo in Ottawa, Canada. The event brought together more than 60 teams from across the globe, offering students the chance to present their projects and interact with researchers and industry leaders in biotechnology.
FSU’s team presented their project focused on engineering bacteria to help prevent dental cavities. Using a genetic switch, the students are working to reduce lactic acid production in the mouth—an innovation they hope could eventually lead to new approaches to oral health.
Beyond showcasing their scientific work, the team took part in a STEM outreach fair at the expo, engaging hundreds of children and families with hands-on activities designed to explain the basics of synthetic biology. Team members used models and visual aids to help demystify complex concepts and spark excitement in young learners.
“Getting to share our work with a wide audience—and especially kids—was a highlight of the trip,” said FSU senior Leila Erfani. “It reminded us of why we got into science in the first place.”
The iGEM competition, which originated at MIT, is one of the world’s premier student-led synthetic biology contests. Each team works on a months-long research project to solve a real-world problem using engineered biology.
This year’s team includes students majoring in biological science, biomedical engineering, computer science, and other STEM fields. Faculty mentors from the College of Arts and Sciences and the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering guide the students through their research and preparations for competition.
The FSU team will continue refining their project before heading to the iGEM Grand Jamboree in Paris, France this October. There, they will join hundreds of teams from around the world to present their final results and compete for awards.
FSU chemistry professor Tim Megraw, one of the team’s advisors, said the experience offers more than just academic enrichment.
“iGEM gives students a rare opportunity to lead real research, collaborate internationally, and communicate science to the public—all skills that are essential for the next generation of scientists,” Megraw said.
FSU’s participation is part of a broader university effort to promote undergraduate research and innovation in the life sciences.
